The Irrawaddy
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Today's Newsletter
NDF Leaders Told to Appeal Past Treason Charges
By BA KAUNG
Four leaders of the National Democratic Force, an NLD breakaway party, have been told they must seek a pardon for past acts of treason before they will be allowed to run in this year's election.
New US Law Could Force PTTEP Disclosure
By SIMON ROUGHNEEN
Legislation recently enacted in the US could force Thailand's national petroleum and exploration company to reveal how much money it is paying Burma's junta for access to energy resources.
US Senators Want UN Investigation of Burma
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
A group of 32 US senators is urging the Obama administration to support a United Nations investigation into possible war crimes in military-run Burma.
Thai Minister's Statement Spreads Fear in Camps
By ALEX ELLGEE
Thailand's foreign minister recently told the Bangkok Post that Burmese refugees should return home after the 2010 elections.
Business
Weekly Business Roundup (July 31, 2010)
By WILLIAM BOOT
Thailand and China are buying more of Burma's energy. Bangkok's state-owned PTT oil and gas conglomerate has signed a deal to take most of the 50 billion cubic meters of gas so far discovered in Block M9 of the Zawtika field in the Gulf of Martaban.
Regional
Temple Row Sours Thai-Cambodian Ties - Again
By MARWAAN MACAN-MARKAR / IPS
Thailand's relationship with neighboring Cambodia looks set to worsen, as tempers once again flare over a 10th-century Hindu temple situated along the two countries' border.
Indonesian President: Hit Back at West Java "Anarchy"
By CAMELIA PASANDARAN / JAKARTA GLOBE
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono calls for firm police action amid rising tensions in Kuningan, West Java, following the closure of Ahmadiyah mosques there by security officials.
Opinion
CONTRIBUTOR
Don't Expect Much from Burma's Election
By PAVIN CHACHAVALPONGPUN
The coming election in Burma will produce a new regime, but will do little to resolve longstanding issues.